What would people eat for an appetizer in Cobar 1906?

Cobar in 1906 was a bustling mining town in the heart of outback New South Wales, Australia. Food in those days was simple and often influenced by the availability of ingredients and the lifestyles of the people.

Here's a glimpse into what an appetizer might look like in Cobar 1906:

Simple and Savory:

* Pickled Onions: A staple in many households, pickled onions would be a common and refreshing appetizer.

* Hard-Boiled Eggs: Easy to make, hard-boiled eggs could be served with salt and pepper, or perhaps a simple vinegar-based dressing.

* Cheese and Crackers: While cheese wouldn't be as readily available as today, a simple cheddar or a local cheese would likely be served with crackers or biscuits.

* Meat Pies: These were popular and portable, often featuring lamb or beef with gravy. They could be served warm or cold, perfect for a casual gathering.

More Elaborate Options (for special occasions):

* Oysters: Cobar was close to coastal towns, so oysters could be transported inland for special occasions. They might be served raw on the half shell, or in a simple stew with a touch of lemon.

* Deviled Eggs: A slightly more complex appetizer, deviled eggs were often made with mustard, mayonnaise, and paprika.

* Sliced Cold Meats: A platter of cold meats, such as ham, beef, or corned beef, would be a common sight at a celebratory meal.

Drinks:

* Beer: Cobar was a mining town, and beer would have been a popular drink for the local population.

* Tea and Coffee: These were staples, often served with milk and sugar.

It's important to remember that these are just examples. Actual meals would have varied depending on the occasion, the household's resources, and the individual's preferences.

Things to consider:

* Availability of ingredients: Fresh produce would have been limited, so most meals would have relied on preserved, dried, or canned goods.

* Cooking styles: Cooking methods would have been simple, using wood-fired ovens or stoves.

* Cultural influences: The majority of the population would have been of British descent, so their cuisine would have reflected those roots.

The appetizers in Cobar in 1906 were likely to be simple, satisfying, and suited to the hard-working life of the people.